Officer needs a miracle

Cornerstone United Methodist Pastor Debra Church often prays for others but she needs a miracle now.Son Matt Lovejoy, 34, a Murfreesboro Police officer, suffered a cardiac arrest last Saturday at his home. Forty minutes passed before his heart began beating again.

"During that time, he had insufficient oxygen to the brain, which has caused a vegetative state," the Rev. Church said.

Murfreesboro Police and firefighters and paramedics treated him before rushing him to Middle Tennessee Medical Center. LifeFlight helicopter flew him to St. Thomas Medical Center in Nashville. He was scheduled to receive a trachea and feeding tube while doctors monitor his progress.

"We ask just that people continue to pray," she said. "It's going to take a miracle."

Police Chief Glenn Chrisman said the department "covets your prayers and support for Officer Lovejoy and his family during this difficult time and for all of our police family."

Lovejoy joined the police department in 1997. He and K-9 partner, Murf, visit with school children and at St. Clair Senior Center. Murf visited at the hospital.

Sgt. Cary Gensemer, who supervises Lovejoy, said he is thoughtful.

Lovejoy gives his own money to help people down on their luck.

"There was a homeless couple Matt developed a bond with," Gensemer said. "He got pizzas for the couple who lived in a box."

Rev. Church stays at the medical center with Lovejoy's father, Steve, brother, Ryan, stepfathers Curtis Church and Fred Hembree, and police officers. The family thanked everyone who has helped.People who want to help the family with expenses may donate to the Matt Lovejoy account at any Mid-South Bank.

Both Ryan Lovejoy and his mother asked for unified prayers."If anyone has a miracle in their pocket, we need one," Rev. Church said.Lisa Marchesoni may be reached at 869-0814 or at lmarchesoni@mufreesboropost.com.

A story like this always reminds me how fortunate I am for all the things God has given me, and how trivial some of the things that I ask Him for really are. My prayer tonight is that God will bring Matt the miracle that he so badly needs,and that He will give the family and his fellow officers the strength and faith that they need as they hold vigilance at Matt's bedside.

I personally know Matt and know that he is a wonderful sweet soul... I have been praying for him and have passed it on to everyone that I know... I met Matt in college and he could always make anyone in his path smile... Matt please know that you are loved and are being prayed for... and for his family... it is the same for you... our GOD is good and will protect Matt....In CHRIST,emilybarrett

I have known Matt for several years now. I know he is a kind and generous person who never says anything bad about anyone. I know that he will always listen. I know that he will always be concerned for people. I know he loves his job. I know this because I work with him. God bless Matt and his family and we LOVE you!!!

HEY GUYS WE ARE TRYING TO RAISE MONEY FOR MATT AND FAMILY AT COCONUT BAY CAFE ON JUNE 21ST.PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD WE WILL HAVE A SILENT AUCTION AND DIFFERENT WAYS TO GIVE BACK TO HIM AND HIS FAMILY .JOIN US ALL TO PRAY FOR THE MIRACLE ....PUT YOURSELF IN HIS FAMILY AND HIS SHOES..............